The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has distanced itself from a truck intercepted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Ondo State loaded with 2,145 kilograms of cannabis allegedly concealed in a fuel compartment.
The company also cimmended the anti-narcotics agency for what it described as its vigilance and professionalism in uncovering the illicit consignment.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, NNPC noted that “preliminary investigations showed that the truck, bearing registration number MKA 960 XC, does not belong to the company or any of its authorised dealers despite carrying markings associated with NNPC”.
According to NNPCL, “the vehicle is not listed in the company’s asset database, while the logo displayed on it does not match NNPC’s current corporate identity.
“NNPC Ltd. has taken note of media reports concerning the intercepted vehicle, which bears markings associated with the Company. We wish to clarify that preliminary checks indicate that the vehicle, with registration number MKA 960 XC, is neither owned by NNPC Ltd. nor part of the official fleet of the Company or any of its authorised dealers.”
The oil company disclosed that it has begun engaging the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to determine how the vehicle came to display the company’s old branding.
It stressed that it treats any unauthorised use of its corporate identity with utmost seriousness, particularly where such use is linked to alleged criminal activities.
“The logo displayed on the vehicle is not consistent with NNPC Ltd.’s current official branding, and the vehicle does not appear in the Company’s asset database. NNPC Ltd. is also engaging with the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to obtain further information and establish the circumstances surrounding the use of the Company’s old branding on the vehicle.”
NNPC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its brand and preventing the misuse of its trademarks and corporate identity.
The company also pledged full cooperation with the NDLEA and other security agencies investigating the case.
“NNPC Ltd. will continue to cooperate fully with the NDLEA and other relevant security agencies and supports a full and thorough investigation to establish all the facts surrounding the incident, including the ownership and operation of the vehicle and the circumstances in which NNPC Ltd. markings came to be displayed on it.”
As part of its response, the company said it is reviewing its brand protection and asset monitoring procedures and would pursue legal action where necessary against individuals or organisations found to have used its identity without authorisation.
NNPC further urged Nigerians and relevant authorities to verify the ownership or affiliation of vehicles claiming to belong to the company through official channels.
Reiterating its support for the anti-drug agency, the company said:
“We once again commend the NDLEA for its vigilance and sustained efforts in combating illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria. NNPC Ltd. remains fully supportive of the ongoing investigation and will continue to provide all necessary cooperation to ensure that the facts are conclusively established.”
